Need input on S&W 36 no dash VS new model Airweights

[Dos]

Haven't seen any earlier model 36's (70's vintage) yet in any shops round here. Pictures show them with their nice lookin but longer looking wooden grips. My significant other is shoppin around for a 38 snubby. Are the newer model Airweights significantly more compact in the grip height than the older model 36's. From viewing pics, the Airweight looks way more compact in heigth. And the 15 ounce weight vs 21 ounces for the older 36 is a plus. I love the old Classic lookin' 36, but for purse carry size is an issue. Has anyone shot both. How does recoil in the Airweights rubber grips compare to the recoil in the longer wood of the classic 36's? Thanks for any help. Yeh, I know in the end its her choice. Just tryin to shed some light..

 

[ugaarguy]

The frames are the same size. The older J frames you see have slim wood grips - known as "Magnas" - which make them appear taller, even though they're the same height. Also, the M36 is a steel J Frame, known as the Chief's Special. The M37 is the Chief's Special Airweight.

The steel frame guns are going to have significantly less felt recoil with the same grips. Recoil is the price you pay for the reduced weight.

 

[still442]

Grips are interchangeable between those guns. You could use the Magnas or rubber grips on either gun, so use other criteria to make your choice.

My personal snub grip of choice is the Magna grips with a Tyler T-grip adapter.

 

[Jim K]

There were also square butt (steel, not wood filler) Chiefs Specials. I carried one as a deputy sheriff and much preferred the 3" barrel, square butt to the 2" barrel snubby. It is easier to control and has a more usable sight radius.

Jim